On July 31, 2006 Time Warner Cable (TWC) replaced Adelphia and Comcast and serves about 1.9 million subscribers in Los Angeles. "Changes won't happen all at once but over a period of time."

This thread merged Adelphia L.A. with TWC L.A. and former Comcast L.A. joined our topic going forward. Adelphia topics remain at the beginning and TWC L.A. posts are at the tail end of this thread. Many customers find the links below helpful.

Channel Lineups: http://www.timewarnercable.com/customerservice/clu/clu.ashx

TWC Quick Links appear at the bottom of their home page: http://www.timewarnercable.com/SoCal/

Programming Alerts (http://www.timewarnercable.com/socal/programming/alerts.html)

Magazine (http://www.twc-lawelcome.com/twc/200607/)

FAQ http://www.timewarnercable.com/Corporate/site.faqs

Question: Why can't I view some channels on my TiVo Series3, TiVo HD, or TiVo HD XL DVR using a CableCARD?

Answer: TiVo Series3, TiVo HD, and TiVo HD XL DVRs are not able to access channels delivered using two-way technology, including Switched Digital Video (SDV) technology. However, Time Warner Cable has worked with the rest of the cable industry and TiVo Inc. to develop an external device called the Tuning Adapter, which allows customers with CableCARD-equipped TiVo DVRs to receive programming delivered using SDV technology, while they continue to enjoy all the features of their TiVo DVRs. Please note that the Tuning Adapter does not provide access to our other interactive features (such as the Electronic Programming Guide, Video On Demand, and other two-way services that HD TiVo DVRs are not designed to access). For more information, please visit company sites around the web:

* Switched Digital Video - Will it impact you? (TiVo) http://support.tivo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/307/related/1/session/L2F2LzEvc2lkLzhhQmxoVkJq
* Switched Digital Video Tuning Adapter FAQ (CableLabs) http://www.cablelabs.com/udcp/downloads/Switched-Digital-Video-Tuning-Adapter-FAQ.pdf
* How to install a Tuning Adapter for switched digital video (TiVo) http://support.tivo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/133
* Time Warner’s guide to Switched Video (Time Warner Cable) http://www.timewarnercable.com/SoCal/learn/cable/sdv/default.html
* Order a switched video adapter from Time Warner (Time Warner Cable) http://www.timewarnercable.com/SoCal/learn/cable/sdv/ordersdv.html

News:

* Switched Digital Video (SDV) & CableCard compatibility (Green Button Forum for Windows Media Center) http://thegreenbutton.com/forums/1/260679/ShowThread.aspx
* TiVo and cable industry unveil Switched Digital Video workaround (CNET’s Crave) http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-9823095-1.html
* FCC Vacates SDV Rulings Against Time Warner Cable, Cox (Multichannel News) http://www.multichannel.com/article/306974-FCC_Vacates_SDV_Rulings_Against_Time_Warner_Cable_Cox.php


Check out the Gadgetress Guide to local TV services http://gadgetress.freedomblogging.com/guide-to-paid-tv-services-in-oc/

When you have a suggestion or unresolved situation bring it to the attention of the executive team, phone, write, email, or send fax.

Customer Service: http://www.timewarnercable.com/SoCal/support/default.html

Chat support is available 24 hours a day; Seven days a week. If you need immediate assistance use TWC's online chat. http://www.timewarnercable.com/Localization/Corporate.ashx?tid=21&linkid=38

TWCLA Regional Map http://www.timewarnerla.com/images/regionmap/TWCLA_region_map.gif

LA's Cable Consolidation Map (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=44888)

Cable Disconnect (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=77810&stc=1)

Now available in:

Calabassas Park
Diamond Bar/Rowland Heights
Hermosa/Manhattan Beach
Glendora
Redondo Beach
Santa Ana
Simi Valley
Villa Park
Yorba Linda

Can someone from these communities post their experience with Adelphia HD?

You might do a search. I know someone from Yorba Linda posted his experiences with it a while ago. I can't remember who it was though. I think they are still doing a lot of testing so it will be hard for anyone to make a good judgement. I just want to hear from someone that can compare it to OTA and D*.

Hi,

There are a couple comments on the So Cal Adelphia tests at hdtvpub.

Also, I talked to a tech rep at Adelphia who informs me that my city, Sierra Madre, and neighboring Arcadia, will be part of a later rollout phase next Spring. So if your towns aren't listed here, look to next Spring to possibly get your HD signals.

It's frustrating that I'm not in the first group as I can only receive NBC and PBS off-air at my location.


Raphael

It's even more frustrating for me since I can't get ANY OTA signals!

Originally posted by tnili
Now available in:

Calabassas Park
Diamond Bar/Rowland Heights
Hermosa/Manhattan Beach
Glendora
Redondo Beach
Santa Ana
Simi Valley
Villa Park
Yorba Linda

Can someone from these communities post their experience with Adelphia HD?

Notice how these are the nicer parts of Orange County, but I wouldn't blame them for doing it there.... Most of the upper class probably have HDTV before people with less income. Except for the case of Santa Ana but that is there main office if that means anything. I WANT HD in ANAHEIM!!! They pushed it back from Sept to OCT and I just called so now its Dec-Jan.

I'm in Fullerton and they originally told me "late-June", then "late-July", now "we don't know"

Seriously considering taking a look at this new VOOM DBS service

Originally posted by Rafter Man
I'm in Fullerton and they originally told me "late-June", then "late-July", now "we don't know"

Seriously considering taking a look at this new VOOM DBS service

Will you please elaborate on this VOOM DBS service. Right now Adelphia would be my only way to go HD because I just don't have the cash to shell out 500 on a reciever. Also satelite makes you buy the HD reciever plus pay the service fee. I like how Adelphia charges 9.95 and the box is rented

I sure would like to see Adelphia here in Salisbury MA. do HD. I'm just using them for Cable modem / Broadband. DirectTV and some OTA HD is my supplier.

Originally posted by Perfectchris
Notice how these are the nicer parts of Orange County, but I wouldn't blame them for doing it there.... Most of the upper class probably have HDTV before people with less income. Except for the case of Santa Ana but that is there main office if that means anything. I WANT HD in ANAHEIM!!! They pushed it back from Sept to OCT and I just called so now its Dec-Jan. From what I can tell, most of the cities listed aren't even in Orange County. Only three of nine (Santa Ana, Yorba Linda and Villa Park) cities are in OC. I have no clue where Calabassas Park is - and neither does mapquest. But it does make sense that they started rolling out where their main office is and "more affluent" areas first. That's why I bought the crappiest place in a nicer neighborhood :D I'm still waiting for them to roll out service in my area and won't buy an HDTV until the service is offered.

I live in Redondo Beach and saw the update to the website this afternoon. When I called, they said that it's not actually available in RB yet, and didn't have an ETA. The original estimate was late October, so I think it's probably still on schedule.

i won't believe it until i actually get confirmation from someone from these "Adelphia HDTV" cities.

even if it's true about adelphia finally rolling out their HD, their lineup is very weak. worse than what you can get for free via OTA. no CBS. instead you get HBO/SHO (if you pay extra).

unless adelphia steps up and brings a lineup card that is on par with comcast, i'll stick w/ D*tv.

i'm in fullerton as well and i was able to get HD OTA reception via Channel Master Stealthtenna. didn't think it would pick it up, but it was a most serendipitous turn of events. i think i'm around 35 miles from mt. wilson.

Originally posted by gingurus
i won't believe it until i actually get confirmation from someone from these "Adelphia HDTV" cities.

even if it's true about adelphia finally rolling out their HD, their lineup is very weak. worse than what you can get for free via OTA. no CBS. instead you get HBO/SHO (if you pay extra).

unless adelphia steps up and brings a lineup card that is on par with comcast, i'll stick w/ D*tv.

i'm in fullerton as well and i was able to get HD OTA reception via Channel Master Stealthtenna. didn't think it would pick it up, but it was a most serendipitous turn of events. i think i'm around 35 miles from mt. wilson.

OTA the only thing u get is CBS, NBC, FOX, ABC AND PBS, right? And does it work where they only broadcast certain shows in HD or is everything in HD?

you are correct in that you only get those channels via OTA, but my point was that's all you get w/ adelphia HD anyways.

only certain primetime shows and some sporting events are broadcast in HD for all of the aforementioned channels, except for PBS, which runs a 24hr HD loop. this is the case whether you have OTA HD, cable HD, dish HD, etc.

it won't be another 3-4 years until everything will be broadcast in HD.....and that's not even 100% at this point.

I know, thats alarming to know just after I bought my Hitachi LCD tv... but still its great but I wish there was a way to get the HD channels I want. I only want the local channels and ESPN HD. Everyone made it as if by 2005 or 2006 there must be HD. To the typical Joe, he doesn't know cable can be broadcasted in analong (please correct me if im wrong). but anyways, I think its a baragin to pay 10 bucks a month to rent the box instead of shelling out 500-600 bucks for the box and get an antenna. Anyone know if they sell HD recievers on ebay?

Originally posted by Perfectchris
Anyone know if they sell HD recievers on ebay?
Of course! They sell everything on Ebay!

You can get Samsung SIR-T150's and T151's for $200-$300, new or used. I bought a used T150, upgraded its firmware, and it works fine fo me.

As for what's available OTA, there's a difference between DTV (digital TV broadcasts) and ED/HDTV (higher resolutions). There are *many* local stations with DTV broadcasts, including all of 2-13, plus several spanish language stations, and both PBS stations (KCET & KOCE). Actual ED content (480p) is available from Fox, HD (720p) from ABC, and HD (1080i) from CBS, NBC, WB, and KCET.

Most of the new fall schedule is now available in some form of ED/HD. See "http://mywebpages.comcast.net/dstarlin/hdtv/Fall.htm"

Does anyone know how to be a beta tester? Do i need to call them or do they usually pick certain people.... Thanks

Good News

Stopped by the local Fullerton office after voting and was able to schedule a set-up for next Tuesday. The girl told me they are not advertising availability in Fullerton yet but they started taking appointments yesterday. They didn't have very much information so I'll just wait in see. I know the HD selection will be pretty sparse for awhile so I'll probably switch to Voom or Superdish in a few months. I have to prove to my wife first that the PQ will be worth the extra $$$.

I will post with my impressions - I have a 50" Sammy DLP but I believe that the box will not be DVI-enabled unfortunately.

aawwww..... I want Anaheim to have it. I dont care how many channels, but I wonder if the box they give you will be able to get Digital Cable on it, I would assume it can.

If they are taking walk-in appointments in Fullerton then just what exactly was the purpose of the priority installation list? I signed up for priority installation on 3/31/03, and have called numerous times. I would have expected that the list would have been honored, a good customer service oriented company certainly would have, but dealing with Adelphia I should have known better.

bwb

Just got off the phone with Adelphia. Apparently only limited portions of Fullerton now have HDTV availability. They now report that my neighborhood won't have it until January (I'm sure that date will be just as real as the promised June launch, Summer launch and October launch). This kind of blows the theory of them prioritizing wealthy areas, as I live in a neighborhood of million dollar plus homes. Also, still no word on the availability of KCBS.

bwb

bwb,

i love it that they said "only certain areas of fullerton" which obviously doesn't include your neighborhood or mine. they probably only have HD in fullerton on that one street where one side of the street is yorba linda and the other side is fullerton.

rafter man,

you're good news will be a bad one real quick when you realize that adelphia is just pulling your leg. good luck anyways. i gave up on these fools long ago.

I want to give up like the rest of you but I don't see any other realistic and cost efficent approaches of getting HD. I want to avoid buying the reciever which is why I am waiting for Adelphia to do this.

I'll let everyone know how it goes next week. I also signed up on the website pretty early but never heard anything back. I got frustrated by calling the Adelphia main customer service line which is why I went to their office on Harbor Blvd. I would not be surprised if the "certain areas of Fullerton" is incorrect - this doesn't make any sense. If you get a chance, I would recommend stopping by their office to see if they let you schedule an appointment.

Also, I asked about the possibility of self-installation and they said this was impossible. Not sure what is so hard about hooking up a cable box but that is their rule.

perfect chris,

you answered your own question. there is no other ecomical way to get HD. cable is your only option is minimal costs is a concern.

problem......if you're waiting for adelphia to launch HD in anaheim, be prepared not to have HD until spring/summer '04. if you're ok with that, then relax and have comfort in knowing that you'll be watching cheap, convenient, HD come next summer.

you basically have two choices. spend the $$$ now and get HD via OTA or wait at least 6 months for cable. i'm not a patient man so i opted for the former. how patient are you?

Gingurus,
There was no question being asked.... I was simply stating for conversation purposes that it was the only economical way.

I gave up waiting for Adelphia HD and got a Samsung SIR-T151 and Silver Sensor for OTA HD. Total cost was $280.

I get CBS, NBC, ABC, PBS, FOX, WB, UPN and some other local DT stations. Suddenly, Adelphia's offering does not look so good to me. The only channels they would add right now are HBO and SHOW.

I think I will stick with OTA until Adelphia adds more HD stations like ESPN, HDNET, and STARZ. Hopefully, by then they will also rollout the Motorola 6208 so I can put my TiVo out to pasture.

I GOT IT!!!

Yesterday Adephia tech spent 2 hours at my house trying to install the HD cable box. I wasn't at home but I called my wife and asked her to ask the tech of the box was DVI-enabled. His reply was yes, it does have S video....first bad sign.

Called back later and wife said tech had left and HD was finally up and running and looked great. After speeding home, I realized that the PQ improvement was due to the change from S video on the old box to 480i component on the new box. According to the tech, this was HD!!!!

Called Adelphia customer service to see what's up but all they could do was tell me that someone would call me.

I switched the component cables over to the HD input and still no joy. I then remembered that there was a set-up menu so I got onto the web and looked it up. After a few simple steps and voila, HDTV!!!

It's a good thing that Adelphia does not allow self-installation for this :)

First Impressions: Box is nice-looking and goes well with my other equipment. I like the remote a lot and the channel changing is a LOT faster than with the old DCT2K box. PQ is fantastic to my eye. I am not too familiar yet to tell if there is any compression causing PQ loss but so far it looks good to me. My wife was blown away and it makes watching SD almost hurt our eyes. I do like the PQ improvement in SD with the component cables but I will be a lot happier when there are more HD channels. Tech said ESPN and Discovery are coming soon but no word on CBS. I'll keep it for awhile to see how fast they add new HD channels and consider satellite if they are not adding more channels soon

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Rafter Man
[B]I GOT IT!!!

Rafterman,
Where do you live?

Are you saying there is no DVI output?

If you have OTA how does it compare?

Thanks,
Michael

Don't mean to but in but I remember him saying he lives in Fullerton.

Originally posted by mojomk
Are you saying there is no DVI output?
I don't think the units Adelphia is using has the DVI output, but I can't be sure. However, even if they do have them, they have yet to be activated and are listed as "for future use".

Yes. Fullerton near Brea Blvd. and Bastanchury.

Unfortunately, no DVI - just empty spot where owners manual says it would normally be...

I don't suppose anyone can compare Adelphia's HD to DirecTV HD or DISH HD yet?

My biggest worry is that if I get it I will be disappointed when comparing it to watching several Monday Night Football games at a friend's house (OTA HD).

I just hope the compression artifacts are not that bad.

Two complaints with that Motorola STB they are using:

1) It's got three tuners, but only one for TV (makes PVR more difficult).
2) No DVI.

Does Adelphia still have 'banner ads' when switching channels?

HDTV SET-TOP PRODUCT INFORMATION

http://www.adelphiasocal.com/hdtv/hdtv_set-top.shtml

* Interactive services, DVI interface, USB connectors, Ethernet port, Smart Card slot, integrated DOCSIS cable modem are all features that will not be active or working at time of purchase. These features were intended for future use.

I got off the phone a couple hours ago with someone from Adelphia. The 1st time I called the person said HD should be available in Nov or Dec. I think they just made that up but anyways, I know better then to just talk to one person so I call again and what do you know. ITS AVAILABLE IN ANAHEIM!!! So... Im on hold for a very long time and the lady on the phone says that the schedule for installation is full and that the department will call me tomorrow and if they do not call to schedule an appointment I have her ext. #. I will let everyone know how it goes.

I talked to Adelphia last night after receiving a couple mailings from them. It seems that HDTV is available in Seal Beach now and I was pretty excited about it - until I started reading their new cable prices. They have gone up pretty substantially. My package went up $20 - and thats before adding the HDTV equipment. The main reason I keep them around is because I like their internet service and I haven't had that many problems with them in general. Anyway, this may be the straw... to be continued.

I live in Glendora which I understand is one of the area for HD roll-out for adelphia. I talked to a tech and he said it is available. When I went to the office, they tell me it is not. What gives?

Needless to say, I canceled my cable service. Got a Samsung SIR-T165 on ebay for $370, installed a silver sensor in my attic, and received all the DTV/HDTV OTA in L.A. area. I'm a happy camper. NFL over the weekend on CBS-HD was amazing on my Samsung HLN567 DLP.

I do like Powerlink from adelphia with the 3MB d/l, however, so I'm keeping that. Now if I can find a better broadband deal, I'll rid of adelphia, forever, hehehe [evil grin].

I had to call Adelphia back since they did not return my call. After talking to a supervisor who schedules the techs to come sent up, he personally took care of the situation. So, they should come out this Friday, 24th between 1-3..... For some crazy reason, I feel a no-show (knock on wood), but I'll update on then and see if Anaheim "Officially" has HD.

GOT HDTV today in Hermosa Beach.

Called 2 weeks ago and they said it would be 3-6 months. Called on Friday regarding something else but asked again about HD and BADA BOOM BADA BING... they suddenly had it. Whatever.

NOT ENOUGH CHANNELS. I'd say that everyone should barrage them w/emails so we could get more channels- actually, the HD basics- but it sounds as if I'm lucky to have anything at all. Guess running a company from jail makes it difficult to keep standards up.

I have to say, I moved here from somewhere else (who didn't?) and have realized I've become spoiled- Hello!?! I live in LA. I'm supposed to get things FIRST, not some rube in Tennessee (and I can say that b/c I'm from there) :)

About installation:

The tech was nice but kind of clueless.

Didn't know when we'd be getting any other channels.

Looked at me blankly when I said the word "inputs"... not a good sign.

Luckily, things went smoothly, overall.

However, didn't leave instructions on how to change 480/720/1080 (said didn't have any- they "wouldn't give me any at the meeting today") and I have forgotten his "it's easier to do from the box than the remote" instructions, so I'm going to have to look it up like that other guy did. Tech said it was easy but I've pressed all buttons I feel safe pressing, and the screen hasn't come up yet. Hmmmmm... Guide change IS awesome- way faster.

Gonna go watch Leno and his big *ss chin in HD.

A-

Watching Leno.

CBS WHERE ARE YOU?

I jinxed myself, well, Its just my luck. They called and left a message appologizing that they will not be coming this Friday because "HDTV is not yet available in Anaheim", but im "on file"..... I knew it was too good to be true.

adelphia hdtv beta tester in 91765 reporting audio dropouts and digital tiling on hdtv, also very poor picture quality on all analog.
adelphia is currently using motorola dct5100, with rumors that they will eventually change over to the dct62xx.

technicians have been out to the house several times and report excellent signal levels.reportedly they have also checked their outlying systems and that report is all good.I suspect a dirty signal or carrier.

in the meantime I have padded down the signal 14db and now hdtv is very good and analog is very, very bad.so now I watch analog on the raw feed and digital only through the dct5100.

Bradbury
Brea
Buena Park
Calabassas Park
Costa Mesa
Fullerton
Glendora
HermosaBeach
La Habra
La Habra Heights
La Verne
Manhattan Beach
Monrovia
Placentia
Redondo Beach
San Dimas
Santa Ana
Seal Beach
Simi Valley
Ventura
Villa Park
Yorba Linda


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

haha EVERYWHERE BUT ANAHEIM!!!!!!! I want it now....

This is updated from the website, I know its only a little more, but it may help someone out

Beverly Hills
Bradbury
Brea
Buena Park
Calabassas Park
Costa Mesa
Diamond Bar
Fullerton
Glendora
Hermosa Beach
La Habra
La Habra Heights
La Verne
Manhattan Beach
Monrovia
Placentia
Redondo Beach
Rowland Heights
San Dimas
Santa Ana
Seal Beach
Simi Valley
Ventura
Villa Park
West Hollywood
Yorba Linda

Those that have the service through Adelphia, what are your current impressions? I know some early impressions were, well... not impressive. The channel line up is still quite lacking, but how is the picture quality and overall experience with the service? My HDTV capable set arrives Wednesday and I am debating between ordering the HD service through Adelphia and getting an OTA STB. Any information is appreciated. TIA.

With this motorla set top box there giving us, can we connect an OTA antenna to it?

If this question is answered here in this thread I missed it, but what level of service do you need to maintain in order to get Adelphia's HD offerings?

I would *hope* that since many people can get all these channels for next to nothing OTA (start-up expenses), that Adelphia wouldn't require customers to have huge subscriptions in order to receive HD. If/when HD rolls out in Thousand Oaks, I'd like to get it, but only as a supplement to my D*.

If I have to pay ~$50 just to get a few HD channels, then unfortunately I'll have to pass.

Rick

I just got the Adelphia HD upgrade on Saturday morning, and unfortunately I had to leave on a trip before I could attempt any fixes...but here are my early impressions:

1) The installer had no clue. For example - he insisted that analog cable channels HAD to be watched via the RF input on my TV.

2) HD content looked impressive at a cursory first glance. At the time, the only one of the three HD channels which was showing HD content was KCET...I'll wait to make judgments until I can see Monday Night Football in HD tomorrow.

3) SD cable looks like ASS -- MUCH worse than the digital cable package I had previously from Adelphia. I can't imagine why the addition of HD would screw things up so badly. The RF feed looks slightly better than the component video input, strangely enough.

As mentioned, there are only three channels (ABC, NBC, PBS) available, with no ETA for ESPN-HD or CBS. My primary interest for HD is sports, although certain primetime shows being in HD is a plus. Given the cost and the fact that many sporting events are on SD cable, I might cancel my HD subscription if PQ doesn't improve.

Hardware and configuration stuff: Samsung 507W DLP, Motorola DCT5100. I have the cable box outputting 1080i on HD and 480p override on SD so I can plug the component into Component 3, which can't handle 480i. (Component 1, the 480i/480p input on the Samsung, is occupied with my Playstation 2.) The cable box is set for 16:9, and I use the Samsung aspect control to bring SD back to normal (4:3) aspect.

Any suggestions on how to improve PQ? I haven't had a chance to mess around with turning DNIe on/off or any of the other permutations of options yet.

I was a beta tester, and have since switched back to direct. I got more channels OTA (don't subscribe to movie channels), and they could not give me a date or answer if they would ever carry espn HD. In my area Y.L. I thought the standard picture looked like crap on my 55511, direct looked alot better and it was cheaper. If they had espn HD i might have stayed. But if I could not recieve channels OTA I think I would go back. I cant see spending 500 bones plus for a direct reciever. Hopefully they will follow dish and intro a reciever that will use the decoder in my tv for around 100 bones.

How dissappointing.... almost nothing postive about Adelphia HD.... Maybe thats why there taking so long to get it running in my area. Thats weird how the SD looks worse.

For anyone who cares about the Anaheim, California HD roll out, this is an email I recieved from them today.

Dear Habib Salamipour,

Thank you for your recent interest in HDTV. We anticipate having HDTV
available in your area by the end of the year. Recently we launched it in
Yorba Linda, Brea and La Habra. I will keep your information on file, and
when it becomes available, we will contact you.

Sincerely,

Sara Wilson
Business Office Supervisor
Adelphia of North Orange County

Originally posted by jinx90277

3) SD cable looks like ASS -- MUCH worse than the digital cable package I had previously from Adelphia. I can't imagine why the addition of HD would screw things up so badly. The RF feed looks slightly better than the component video input, strangely enough.

Hardware and configuration stuff: Samsung 507W DLP, Motorola DCT5100.

I wonder if the SD problem is in the box.
Does any of the other cable cos in the area use this Moto 5100?

I have the digital feed now (Seal Beach) and the pic is pretty good. They switched out the old box for a new Motorola DCT2000 when I went to digital. I remember seeing an improvement at the time.

I would be pretty jacked up if I went to all the expense of going to HD only to have the other 98% of my content go downhill...

I'm starting to suspect that the problem is the box. The DCT5100 FAQ (link available elsewhere on this forum) actually mentions that SD picture quality is a known problem with that unit.

Part of the problem is that the output resolution seems to be fixed over the component interface, if I'm reading things correctly. That means that instead of using the good Faroudja scaler in my Samsung DLP, I'm using whatever is in the box. I got a little bit of improvement by setting it to 720p (the native resolution for the Samsung), but not major strides.

The truly weird thing is that the picture quality seems to be proportional to the channel number. Digital channels (100 and above) look terrific on the new box. Analog channels (below 100) are not as good, but you can really see a difference between higher-numbered stations and lower-numbered one. For example: ESPN (channel 3) looks terrible compared to Fox Sports Net (32). CBS (2) looks the worst of all. Any guesses?

The HD signal looks AWESOME, though. If only they had more channels available...

Even though I don't have it yet, It'd be nice if the could include one of the four big channels (ESPN, HDNET, Discovery, and HDmovies).... I guess with time they'll add more channels for more out of your pocket

I had another appointment schduled for this morning and it took a while to get it hooked up. At first, the tech said that he reccommends putting in new wiring and splitters. The splitters actually had to be removed because they were too old. As for the wiring, I was planning on waiting till they came over and they didn't charge me either. The tech came at 9 20 and it took him about a hour to re wire and also, he grounded the wires since it wasn't there before. Once we got the HD box hooked up, he couldn't get a signal and one it part that he connected the cable to the VCR slot on the box. Once connected correctly, the box didn't download the software correctly. After about a hour we was getting ready to give up because he kept asking the control center to send "hits" but nothing worked. At about 11 30, 4 other techs came to assit with the grounding while he still messed with the box. The tech mentioned that I was the first in Anaheim so everyone is intrested to see what happens.
One tech that did most the installs in Yorba Linda was doing most the work at this point and they kept having the signal or codes reset because I couldn't get the 900's which are the HD channels. Finally at about 12 30, they sent some sort of signal and we got HD.
There are only 5 channels like everybody has beein saying (NBC, ABC, PBS, HBO, SHW). My annalog channels improved dramastically! In fact, every non-HD channel is remarkable compared to before and I say beats satellite. The digital channels are all like DVD quality. The rewiring truly made a huge difference. As for the HD channels, PBS is obviously the only one truly all HD, and I don't even watch that. I'll have to wait till tonight for the prime time shows, but, you could definitly tell how much better it is. There is no signs of compression or any pixel problems. The techs said in Yorba Linda they were having a lot of trouble with there equipment but there getting more experienced installing HD's that it'll be quicker. Not all Anaheim is available but those who can get it, I would definitly recommend it but they could definitly use ESPNHD, HDNET or Discovery. I'm a happy customer after 10 years :)

Originally posted by raphaelt
Hi,

There are a couple comments on the So Cal Adelphia tests at hdtvpub.

Also, I talked to a tech rep at Adelphia who informs me that my city, Sierra Madre, and neighboring Arcadia, will be part of a later rollout phase next Spring. So if your towns aren't listed here, look to next Spring to possibly get your HD signals.

It's frustrating that I'm not in the first group as I can only receive NBC and PBS off-air at my location.


Raphael

I talked to a Adelphia tech on the street yesterday and he said HD is coming to Sierra Madre in January or Febuary 2004. And the cheapest level of subscription with HD is the "bronze package" That and the box you're looking at $55 per month. BEV is a much better deal and works great in Sierra Madre!

Adelphia has been doing some work. Here is an update for anyone in these areas that may not be aware of it. Straight from there web site:

HDTV is now available in the following areas:

Anaheim
Arcadia
Beverly Hills
Bell Canyon
Bradbury
Brea
Buena Park
Calabassas Park
Camarillo
Chino
Costa Mesa
Diamond Bar
Eagle Rock
El Monte
Fullerton
Glendora
Hacienda Heights
Hermosa Beach
La Habra
La Habra Heights
La Verne
Manhattan Beach
Marina Del Rey
Monrovia
Newport Beach
Ontario
Oxnard
Placentia
Redondo Beach
Rowland Heights
San Dimas
Santa Ana
Santa Monica
Seal Beach
Sierra Madre
Simi Valley
Sherman Oaks
South Gate
South Whittier
Upland
Ventura
Villa Park
West Hollywood
West Los Angeles
Yorba Linda

Originally posted by Red Dwarf
BEV is a much better deal and works great in Sierra Madre!

What is BEV?

Originally posted by Randu
What is BEV?


BEV is short for Bell Expressvu which is a DBS service for Canada. Their footprint covers a large part of Canada and most of the US. They offer both east and west coast networks in HD. They have CBS, ABC, NBC, FOX, PBS, etc. On the other had Adelphia only offers ABC, NBC, PBS, HBO, and Showtime. BEV requires the use of a address broker for those of us in the US.

Thanks
So, DBS = Satellite system?
I'll have to check them out.

HDTV HAS ARRIVED via Adelphia in So Cal

Should say kind of arrived. Here in Diamond Bar, Ca. Hdtv PQ experiences digital tiling, compression artifacts, macro blocking and audio dropouts.

The adelphiasocal site was down earlier this week, but now it's back up and lists the Motorola DCT6200 as one of the available STBs. Has anyone had one of these installed instead of the DCT5100? Does it have a DVI port? Is it enabled? The picture they show of the back panel on the adelphiasocal site does not show any DVI port or any IEEE 1394. I know the Firewire won't be enabled for a little while but the DVI would be very nice to have. Also, if you have this box, what are you comments on PQ?

Thanks.

Alephia web site says Sherman Oaks has HD. I called and emailed and they confirmed that this included Encino, and they scheduled an appointment for mid Feb. to install the new HD box. I am highly skeptical that there will really be HD in Encino and that it will really be installed and that it will really work and that it will work well given no DVI connection. In short, I'm skeptical of the whole Adelphia thing. But, it's worth a shot to save over Direct tv. I'll report back next month.

Originally posted by moeronn
The adelphiasocal site was down earlier this week, but now it's back up and lists the Motorola DCT6200 as one of the available STBs. Has anyone had one of these installed instead of the DCT5100? Does it have a DVI port? Is it enabled? The picture they show of the back panel on the adelphiasocal site does not show any DVI port or any IEEE 1394. I know the Firewire won't be enabled for a little while but the DVI would be very nice to have. Also, if you have this box, what are you comments on PQ?
I had the 6200 installed a couple of weeks ago. DVI and Firewire are there but not enabled yet. They say DVI is scheduled to be up by June. I hope they do it soon, the pic needs improvement. OTA kicks its ass.
Don't get me wrong, the Cable-HD is fantastic but the OTA pic is quite a bit cleaner.
FYI, running to Pio HD910

Now for some tantalizing news....................

They added CBS-HD today (sort of)
The station slot appeared today, nothing broadcasting as of yet but the channel guide has the info. Maybe they figured they didn't want to piss off all their new HD sign-ups and got CBS settled for the Super Bowl!

Satellite system?I'll have to check them out.

Adelphia came out and installed the Moto 6200 at my place in Seal Beach this afternoon. I wasn't there when they did the install, but I had all the cables set so all they would have to do is attach them to the cable box. I find out that they would not use any of my cables and in fact did not hook it up at all like I had wanted. That was sort of expected, but they even replaced my 4-way splitter.

Anyway, the signal was horrible (regardless of installation). The HD channels were choppy, to say the least. Even the digital channels looked worse than before and had some break up. They either need to up the bandwidth, or the STB is going back and I'm 'down grading' back to standard digital. I'm extremely disappointed :(

Randu - you may want to check your firmware version. Although I haven't yet tried the DVI port, I do have the 7.07 firmware which should enable the DVI. I'll give it a try tomorrow and see if/how it works.

Anyone in Redondo Beach, CA has Adelphia HD yet?

According to their website it's still not available. I have D* but I am about to offer up hundreds of dollars for a few channels.

I also don't see if Adelphia HD offers local channles in HD or just the same handful of channles from D* and Dish.

Mark

Adelphia HD offers ABC, NBC, KCET, Showtime HD & HBO HD, according to their website. I would assume that getting Show-HD and HBO-HD would also require subscriptions to their SD versions of Show and HBO.

Rick

Just a followup - DVI is enabled on the 6200, but that can't compensate for the lack of signal strength. They are sending a tech back out on Saturday, though I don't know what they will be able to do. I might just try an amplifier, but don't know if that will help.

ender, you are correct about the channel line up. It is still pretty weak. There was a press release about Adelphia making a deal with HDNet and HDNet Movies, but I haven't heard any time frame for when it will be broadcast.

I have component but do you think it is worth it to change? I realluy want to change to DVI but if the picture isnt a major change, no reason... also, i have the moto 5200, do you think I should switch to the 6200? and does anyone know how to switch? Do tjhey have to come out here again? or can I just switch at the local office? Thanks to anyone who can answer

Arungupta, in the rear projection forum, has theorized that the Motorola boxes might just be doing a analog-to-digital conversion prior to sending the video out the DVI port instead of sending the pure digital signal. This would easily make for very little difference in video quality seen on either component or DVI.

On my HD200 satellite box, I see a *huge* difference between Component and DVI. Of course, your display makes a difference too. I have a Samsung DLP which keeps the DVI signal digital all the way through the process. If the Moto does indeed send out a pure digital signal from the DVI port, but your *display* does a D/A conversion after receiving the data through its DVI port, then that too could explain not seeing a difference between the two.

Rick

It's really hard to say whether it's worth switching boxes and connections - I haven't tried the 5100. My reception looks horrible on either connection.

Original setup - coax from digital box to a Replay, s-video from Replay to Reciever, s-video from receiver to 50" Sony GWIII RPLCD

New setup - Component and DVI from Moto6200 directly to GWIII.

Even with all the connections of the original setup, the picture on SD was WAY better before I switched. If they don't significantly improve the signal somehow, I plan on asking for a regular digital box again, but with s-video and DD this time.

Anyway, the signal was horrible (regardless of installation). The HD channels were choppy, to say the least. Even the digital channels looked worse than before and had some break up.

Moeronn, I have had the same problems in PQ(picture quality).The field techs tested signal level and reported all good. The problem is IMHO a dirty signal or carrier, over compression and a low SNR(signal noise ratio).

If you are interested in mickey mouse remedy, you could attenuate the feed in to the box by a few decibels and that could dramatically improve HD PQ. But I am afraid this solution will degrade analog PQ.

i just got my HD TV(lcd) and ordered HD tv from adelphia and they said they will be here on thursday.Is it that bad? =(

Originally posted by H3at
i just got my HD TV(lcd) and ordered HD tv from adelphia and they said they will be here on thursday.Is it that bad? =( Signal strength and PQ may vary depending on your area, so I really can't say how it will be in La Verne. Though, I would expect the worst and then perhaps be pleasantly surprised. I would suggest being there for the install, make sure they set it up the way YOU want, not the way they like to do it, and check the PQ on both SD and HD channels before the installer leaves. KCET or the HD premiums should be broadcasting HD all day. Good luck and I hope your installation goes better than you expect.

Moe
Sorry I missed your recent posts here.

This is why I made sure I took off work early and was there when they installed my 6200!

The "tech" was ready to walk out the door with the 6200 set at 480P instead of 1080i, so you may want to start there.
I can't exactly remember how he got into the installation menu, I know he powered it down, then back up, and while it was powering up he held the menu or info button down. You could call them and check. I'd give that a look right away.

I don't have any PQ complaints (other than lack of HD selection) I received this e-mail response from the Big A a couple of weeks ago saying the DVI wouldn't be hot until June or so, but I'll give it another shot.
Date: Thu, 8 Jan 2004 17:04:04 -0000
From: <orangecounty@adelphiasocal.com>
X-Mailer: TWIG 2.7.5

Mr. M.....,

I am sorry the cable install was less than what you expect and I will bring this to the leads attention. We are in negotiation with several HDTV providers. Yes we will have CBSHD but I really don't know which of the others we will get. We will not have them before the Superbowl game but we should have the channels by June. We probably will have the DVI ports available then.

Thank you,
Adelphia

Hey, SD is SD. It is FOR SURE improved via S-Video vs Component.

On the other hand, OTA Kicks Ass vs cable, picture-wise, but the audio is much better with cable...
I had a ChannelMaster 4-Bay Bowtie put up and it works great. (CBS-HD!, FOX-DT, UPN-DT). I'm in CPE so I have a clear shot at the hills across the Air-Station. The Super Bowl was Jaw Dropping..........

Randu

Randu - Thanks for the info on the resolution. I'll try and check that this week. It still seems that even 480p should look at least as good, if not better, than the 480i I was getting before. However, the issue doesn't seem to be the actual image resolution, it seems more like compression of the signal, or perhaps signal strength. It's odd that our PQ is that different given our proximity (I'm in the area behind the Kohls shopping center). I will try the attenuator/amplifier before the tech comes over. Right now my cable is split all over the place and I have a 4-way splitter before it hits the cable box, though I did try just a 2-way and there was no change in PQ. We'll see what happens.

Definitely give the DVI a try. Mine is working, though it doesn't help any. You can check your firmware version to verify that you have 7.07. IIRC, you can go to menu>setup to check it. If that doesn't work, search the HDTV hardware forums for more info.

Well adelphia is comming tomorrow to install HD.the cable that is comming from my wall to my tv is split to my cable modem.And there are 3 other cable boxes in the house.Will that effect my picture quality?

Does the dvi connect on your guys cable box work?should i use the dvi or component?

Originally posted by Randu
The "tech" was ready to walk out the door with the 6200 set at 480P instead of 1080i

How can i tell if they set it right?

thnx-

wish me luck =D

well its 12:00 pm.. and they should of arrived already..Called adelphia and they said they were at the house..Liars been awake since 7 in the morning. they said they will TRY and come back out today..and if not i will have to reschedule..and i took off a day of work..wtf so bs..

That's weak. I'd be demanding they come out again today, just because of your work status.

Rick

I had Adelphia come out last Thursday and set mine up. I should say the installer watched me install the box because he didn't have a clue about what a digital audio cable was. He insisted I needed the red and white sound cables to hook it up. Overall the picture looks good. I compared Leno OTA with a Zenith HD420 hooked up via component to a Pioneer Elite 630 to the Motorola 5100 component hookup. Both looked the same in picture quality the only difference was the cable HD picture looked like it was blown up more. I guess the best way to explain it is Jay looked closer than the OTA picture. If you didn't have OTA to compare it to you would never notice it. KABC and NYPD Blue looked pretty good the other night. I can't pickup KABC on my OTA setup. I watched a fight on ShoHD over the weekend and it looked great. Anyway so far so good. I just hope they add some more channels soon and don't try and raise the prices when they do.
Later
Jim

Originally posted by H3at
Well adelphia is comming tomorrow to install HD.the cable that is comming from my wall to my tv is split to my cable modem.And there are 3 other cable boxes in the house.Will that effect my picture quality?

Does the dvi connect on your guys cable box work?should i use the dvi or component?

How can i tell if they set it right?The number of splits may affect your PQ. It depends on where the set is in relation to the cable coming from outside. The closer to the outside cable (meaning the fewer splits), the better your PQ should be. If the signal strength is high enough, it won't matter.

The DVI port on my 6200 does work. I haven't really been able to compare DVI to Component, since they both suck right now. You can check if your is activated by going to Menu>Setup>cable box>info and check firmware version. If it is 7.07, the DVI port should work.

I was able to get into the setup menu, but was pressing all kinds of buttons and not sure what actually got me into it. I think it was the menu button while the cable box was off. I will try and verify this tonight.

Sorry to hear they didn't show up when they were supposed to. That's one of the main reasons try and schedule on weekends. When you schedule, sometimes it helps if you ask them to call before they arrive. Doesn't always work, but it's worth a shot. Also, I would complain and at least try and get a month or two's credit on your bill. Good luck.

Update! ok they finnaly came .......................................................

The dvi works on my cable box.but i have not yet compared it to the component.I wonder if it is worse.




But the best PQ i got is kcet. the movie channels HBO and Showtime are about the same(looks slightly better than progressive dvd), but nbc and abc look bad to me not as bad as analog just doesnt look HD.I thought it would all look great like KCET pq.Anyone know why not?

Are my PQ about the same as u guys?

Was watching the KCET program nova about glaciers,and damn it is SOOooOoo clear.movie channels are good. but very dissapointed on nbc abc.

BTW i have a sony lcd RP 50" GWIII(wanna get a plasma now)

Thnx for all ur help fellas.

Does anyone know if they will have more channels in HD in the couple of months?

Originally posted by H3at
nbc and abc look bad to me not as bad as analog just doesnt look HD.I thought it would all look great like KCET pq.Anyone know why not?



Were the programs you were watching HD? If it was news, or a primetime show that NBC or ABC doesn't currently broadcast in HD, then it would just be SD upconverted to HD.

Rick

Originally posted by ender21
Were the programs you were watching HD? If it was news, or a primetime show that NBC or ABC doesn't currently broadcast in HD, then it would just be SD upconverted to HD.

Rick


not sure.where do i find a listing of programs on these channels that are actual HD?

Edited to add- Found the programs on NBC

What shows does NBC currently broadcast in high-definition?
American Dreams, Boomtown, Crossing Jordan, Ed, ER, Frasier, In-Laws, Hidden Hills, Law & Order, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno are currently broadcast in HDTV. Occasionally, theatrical films and made-for-TV movies are also broadcast in the high-definition format.

A good source to find HD programming is,
www.titantv.com

ender21- do you have HD cable in TO? Any word on Oak Park?

-Saldisk

No I don't. I have DirecTV.

As far as I know, Thousand Oaks, Oak Park and Newbury Park are all the same area, but according to Adelphia's website, the HD rollout for TO and Newbury Park are separate, and Oak Park isn't even on the list. I have no clue what that means, though. I would guess that once it's available here in TO, it's available to you in OP and in NP too. But who knows?

Rick

It can be confusing if you are new to digital telecasts. NBC has broadcast many of their scripted primetime programs in high definition. But among those series that have had previous episodes broadcast in high definition, some of the new episodes have not.

The tech came back out today to check everything. After he tested signal strength at several locations - before and after the splitters - he decided to try a different cable box. Now the PQ is much improved. No more heavy pixelation or audio drop outs on HD. Analog and digital channels look as good as they did before the switch from the (regular) digital box to the HD box. The PQ on HD does still pixelate/dither during fast motion/panning scenes, but it's still much better than before. Now they just need to add more channels!!

sorry guys but this is off topic but does anyone know how to program the adelphia remote for the tv volume?


thnx

Hey, Hey, HEY

CBS-HD is up & running tonight!

anaheim, Ca here and I just checked to see if we have it as well but we still DON'T. Im acutally not disappointed at all because I just want them to get HDNET on.... Does anyone have ANY info on when it will be up?? I have yet to find any dates, if there is any at all. also, if you have it and are getting actually programming on then I am sure it will work its way down here. anyone else can confirm?

Originally posted by Randu
Hey, Hey, HEY

CBS-HD is up & running tonight!


YuP!!! barely noticed i was like "Hey CSI with HD"?

LoL we need more channels!!!

Originally posted by Randu
Hey, Hey, HEY

CBS-HD is up & running tonight!

This afternoon we finally got CBSHD. So as far as the Local HD channels... is all we need is the WB and FOX? Is KCAL 9 in hd? like lakers games?

I was looking at the new HD-NET website and i stumbled upon this

http://www.hd.net/watch_at_home.html

It says adelphia provides HD-net..........Such LiEs!!! ...does anyone know when HD-net will be on or any other channels?

It is possible that HD-Net is on Adelphia... in other markets. I believe Chicago had CBSHD long before we did. Each market is different, but hopefully we will get it soon. Adelphia may actually turn things around and prove worthy of our business :D

Just this week we started getting CBS-HD and FOX KTTV-DT.
Jim

Originally posted by motoman
Just this week we started getting CBS-HD and FOX KTTV-DT.
Jim

U have FOX in HD??

IS simpsons in widescreen?

No fox here in santa monica!

Yea same here in Anaheim... but i said that last nite and i got CBS in the morning. BTW, CBS doesn't look nearly as good as NBC. And, i think ABC look far better then both CBS and NBC. haha and then, I have to say PBS is the best channel PQ wise.

Originally posted by Perfectchris
Yea same here in Anaheim... but i said that last nite and i got CBS in the morning. BTW, CBS doesn't look nearly as good as NBC. And, i think ABC look far better then both CBS and NBC. haha and then, I have to say PBS is the best channel PQ wise.

I agree.. Jay leno in HD looks really good too

No Fox here in Yorba Linda either. CBS came up a few days ago.

On a separate note, has anyone else with a built in QAM (digital cable) tuner on their TV tried plugging their cable into it? I tried it when I first got my TV (right after Adelphia rolled out HD in YL) and I was able to get NBC HD and some other random cable channels, but not KCET-HD or ABC HD (no CBS at that time). I called Adelphia about it and they basically said that I shouldn't have said anything and that I shouldn't be receiving it like that. I haven't tried it since I got my HD box, just wondering if anyone else had a similar experience. I tested on a Mits 55-511.

Well, I went and did some testing on my own here because I got curious, and low and behold, I found Fox. It comes up listed as SD 16x9. Most other channels show up as SD 4x3. I also managed to find the Digital/HD versions of ABC, NBC, and CBS, but not KCET. Below is all the channels I found and the equivalent channel thru a cable box.

79.02 Dig KABC 907
79.08 GOLTV? 124
81.01 Dig KNBC 904
83.04 Style 63
83.06 Toon Disney 117
83.07 Soap 118
83.09 IFC 142
83.11 Fox Sports World 125
83.12 BBC America 109
92.20 Biography Channel 115
93.05 TBN enlace USA? 719
93.15 vida vision? 718
100.03 Dig Fox - lists as 16x9 SD - no equivalent channel
101.02 National Geographic 58
101.03 Discovery Home and Leisure 103
101.06 CSN - Cable Shopping Network 110
101.13 Oxygen 132
103.02 In Demand Preview 300
104.09 In Demand Preview - Different than above
106.12 MBC 166
108.02 FitTV 57
108.08 ILIFE 113
110.01 Dig KCBS 902
116.12 Zee TV 766
122.127 Some sort of preview, only in upper right corner - On Demand

You found these where? OTA?

Nope, these are off my cable from Adelphia. I decided to try hooking it up directly to the QAM tuner in my Mits TV since it is supposed to be able to handle unscrambled digital cable. After a long auto-program, these are the stations that came in, along with a lot of others that stated "channel is scrambled".

[i]Originally posted by Ahardt

About installation:

However, didn't leave instructions on how to change 480/720/1080 (said didn't have any- they "wouldn't give me any at the meeting today") and I have forgotten his "it's easier to do from the box than the remote" instructions, so I'm going to have to look it up like that other guy did. Tech said it was easy but I've pressed all buttons I feel safe pressing, and the screen hasn't come up yet. Hmmmmm... Guide change IS awesome- way faster.

A- [/B]
Ahardt,

Did you ever figure out how to change 480/720/1080? All my HD content is displaying 1080i. Do you have it on 720p?

Thanks~

IIRC, if you turn the box off (this is for the 6200) and press the menu button, it should bring up the setup screen where you can change the resolution.

HTH

Originally posted by moeronn
IIRC, if you turn the box off (this is for the 6200) and press the menu button, it should bring up the setup screen where you can change the resolution.

HTH
Moeronn,

Thanks for the reply. The tech told me the HD receiver is Moto 6208 :D. Well, do you know which resolution will be best for my Hitachi 50V500 LCD tv? 720p or 1080i? Thanks.

Hmmm.. the 6208 is supposed to also be a PVR. Have you given that a try? Do you know it it's enabled at this point?

i just looked at www.adelphiasocal.com to see if they updated the channel information. It looks like they did - sort of. The main HDTV page (http://www.adelphiasocal.com/hdtv/) shows that they added CBS and FOX, but neither of them show up in my channel lineup. I'll have to check my box when I get home, cause I noticed CBS the other day, but no sign of FOX. Can't wait to see William Hung (from American Idol) in HD!! ;)

Originally posted by moeronn
Hmmm.. the 6208 is supposed to also be a PVR. Have you given that a try? Do you know it it's enabled at this point? No, I haven't try it. I'm not sure if my receiver is really 6208 or not. When I ask if the DVI is enabled, he looked puzzeled. Can I find the model number on the back?

Fox does not do HD yet.

It is standard definition in a 16:9 format.

Originally posted by fourizonly
No, I haven't try it. I'm not sure if my receiver is really 6208 or not. When I ask if the DVI is enabled, he looked puzzeled. Can I find the model number on the back? Check the bottom of the unit. There should be a big sticker that lists the model number.

The DVI port on my 6200 is functioning. You have to have firmware version 7.07, I believe, for it to be active. haven't checked lately to see if anything else have been activated.

Originally posted by H3at
U have FOX in HD??

IS simpsons in widescreen?

I haven't seen Simpson's in W/S. I don't normally watch to much on Fox just
Cops and Nascar. I checked last night and KTTV-DT was gone out of my channel lineup.
Jim

Simpsons isn't in widescreen unfortunately. The only things I have seen in widescreen are The OC and Tru Calling. I would bet some of the Sunday line up is also in widescreen. Maybe Bernie Mac, Arrested Development, Malcolm in the Middle, and Oliver Beene. Of course this should all change once they switch over to HD later in the year. I thought I heard they had commited to 50% of their primetime lineup in HD.

Anybody else have channel 911 (KTTV-DT) disappear from their channel lineup. I had it for a little while then it went away and hasn't come back. Guess I call them and see what's up.
Later
Jim

After waiting until Adelphia had CBS and FOX added to the line up I finally made the transition from OTA HD to Cable HD. I live in a area with multi-path problems so the while OTA was good 95% of the time, other other 5% was maddening. I took the big honking ugly antenna off the roof today!!!

Comparing the two, I notice very little difference in HD programming, however the non-HD material does seem very slightly softer (imperceptible to the wife).

The Installer was not up on his facts and even tried to tell me their standard cables were better then my top of the line monster cables. He started to switch them out without even asking! He also did not know that they even offered CBS in HD, let alone FOX. I told him that adelphiasocal.com listed both as available and that the CSR confirmed they had both when I placed the install order. I get CBS (to his surprise) but not FOX. He did hint that the plan is to add many stations in the coming months, including ESPN.

Overall, I'm happy so far. Good picture quality, simpler to use system (no switching between cable box and HD box and TV inputs), and hopefully more consistent reception and more stations in the future.

bwb

Well, another update on what can be received with a built in QAM digital cable tuner. Fox (KTTV-DT) still shows up on 100.03, but it no longer shows up as 16x9 SD, but instead HD Standard as CBS, ABC, and NBC do. Other threads have reported that KTTV is now broadcasting in 720p (upconverted since they aren't really doing HD content yet) which would probably explain the change. It would appear that Adelphia is passing the upconverted signal. I have to admit, it looks quite good, even if it is just upconverted. Can't wait to see some widescreen stuff tonight. Of course, the cable box still doesn't have a channel 911 (my guess as to where KTTV-DT will show up), but hey, the signal is there, might as well watch it. BTW, the KTTV-DT bug in the lower left corner is really annoying :(

Jason

I watched the Nascar race on KTTV-DT with OTA today. It really breaks up allot on my OTA so I was really hoping to get it back on Adelphia. I agree what I saw looked very nice but I got tired of all the breakups and had to go back to the regular feed on channel 11. Hopefully they will get it back on there soon. If I can get free time this week I'm going to call and see what's up.
Later
Jim

I just got Fox11 in HD today. Channel 911. It was known for a while it was coming though. At least they got in now, way ahead of when FOX while be in HD so we dont complain about it being late

Well i was just checking my HD Channels right now.And to my suprise FOX11 is on chan 911 bernie mac is in 16x9 but i doubt in HD

I checked last night and we still don't have it back. I'll check again tonight.
Jim

Anyone else had a lot of breakups on both HD and SD content recently?

Ive had break ups, but I only watch Fox Sports West. It always breaks up when a big play is about to happen

Yeah, I had several big breakups during CBS's HD coverage of the first round college basketball games- many right before big plays:(

Still don't have KTTV-DT (911) here. I called the other night and the person I got on the phone really didn't have a clue. I told her I had it and then it went away. Still no help at all. She finally just said it may show back up again at some point but they didn't know for sure.
Jim

eh, ur not missing much to tell you the truth.

Originally posted by Perfectchris
eh, ur not missing much to tell you the truth.

Hes right. Simpsons is not in widescreen!!

I just want a better picture for Nascar.......

Right now, I would put KTLA (WB) at the top of the list. They seem to have plenty of shows broadcast in HD that we are not getting. If the Angels were broadcast in HD on KCAL, then I would put them at the top.

With the recent add of Espn this looking awfully like an HD tier is being created. Let see we have 2 hdnet channels and espn.. hmm all we need to discovery and bam $10 per month on top of the overprice $10 box.

We may look back at these days and refer to them as the "golden age of subscription television". In the future the gate keepers won't stop with ala carte pricing. The next pricing model is "measured service". Only pay for what you use. That may seem far off but VOD is available now in some areas.

When will we start seeing some of the new channels show up?
Jim

Originally posted by Valuepac
With the recent add of Espn this looking awfully like an HD tier is being created. Let see we have 2 hdnet channels and espn.. hmm all we need to discovery and bam $10 per month on top of the overprice $10 box.

yea, 20 bucks for hd... thats a lot. What does other cable companies charge for a lineup similar to Adelphia's future lineup?

According to their websites:

Comcast
ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX widescreen, PBS (KCET), INHD, INHD2, ESPN in HD for an extra $5 per mo with no extra cost to premium subscribers for HBO or Show in HD. STARZ HD and CINEMAX HD are coming soon!

Time Warner
all active channels above plus Discovery HD, HDNet and HDMovies for a total of 12 HD channels. Couldn't find quote for LA area. The following are charges for San Diego: *Regular rate is $9.95 per month, $6.95 per month with any Digipic Pak. Monthly cable and converter charges apply. HDTV and HDTV converter from Time Warner Cable required. HD converter charge of $5.95 per month and $29.95 installation fee apply. Programming and pricing subject to change. Taxes and copyright fees apply. Other restrictions may apply.

Charter
For only about $3 more, Charter provides you with an HD receiver and access to local broadcasters in HD, HBO HD and Showtime HD. For a few bucks, you can enjoy the amazing visuals of Discovery HD and incredible library of movies & shows from HDNet Movies and HDNet Entertainment. Enjoy your programs with unbelievable clarity and amazing sounds ? only with Charter HDTV!

COX
You can lease the HD converter from Cox for $9.95 per month. The HD Converter will replace your current digital converter if you are a Cox Digital Cable customer. With the converter, you are able to receive ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC as well as HBO HD and Showtime HD (as long as you are a current HBO and/or Showtime subscriber). There is a $49.95 installation fee for HD Service.* For an additional $4.95 per month (as of 3/1/2004) you can add our HD Tier which includes ESPN HD and Discovery HD Theater.**You must be a Cox Digital Cable customer in order to receive
High-Definition Service from Cox. Cox Digital Cable pricing starts at $52.74/mo.

Does anyone know for sure what NEW channels will we be recieving at the end of April?

Tv: Sony KF-50WE610. Out of the box, pic looks great, haven't had time to adjust, but can't think of any reason to screw it up yet. Build date is March 2004.

Cable: Adelphia delivered high def box DCT 6200, as I requested with the DVI output (connector not provided by Adelphia, got it myself). Adelphia missed their first appointment, stating that "it had been cancelled." When I called to yell at them, they came the next day. When cable guy came the next day, he wouldn't wait for the signal to come through on the new box, and it never came. He came back later that day, still no signal. The next day, he came back, made another call and signal arrived. He said when he called it in the first two times, the operator must have put in the wrong code. Yeah sure; whatever. The new box works great and is MUCH faster at changing channels than the old digital cable box. Guy said "signal is pretty good." I said, "pretty good isn't good enough," so he's coming tomorrow to bring a new cable signal amplifier.

DVD: Sony progressive scan connected with component connections. Looks great.

Picture quality: Very good all around as long as I keep the screen at 4:3; I hate the figure distortion (squatting) when I convert regular channels to wide screen or zoom, etc. HD channels (902, 904, 907, 911 - though not sure if 11 is really HD), 928 and 9HBO) automatically convert to widescreen, and look fantastic, especially 928 (though they seem to re-run the same content).

Sound: via Sony STR-DA4ES (7.1 with Polk RM6700 speakers), connected via optical connection. Sounds great, especially programs in 5.1.

Overall, I'm very pleased with the equipment, less than pleased with the installation hassle, pleased with the number of HD channels (and with the news that ESPN HD is coming soon), and glad I waited for cable instead of switching to Direct TV which would have been a much bigger hassle for me and would have required a giant antenna on the roof to get the local channels. Thank you all for the very useful information.

I just noticed that adlephiasocal.com is now touting that a HDTV DRV box/service is about to be released and they have started a priority list. Sounds like it's still a month or two away (more in adelphia time), but great to see.

On a separate note: I was able to get a three month credit on my HD service since Fox 11 is not yet available but was/is listed on website and advertising.

bwb

I was going to bring that up too BWB, I just figured someone else got to it first cause im usually late.... Anyways, I would signup, but I want some idea of the price. We're paying 55 bucks right now a month for regular cable and HD. to me, that is insane but I could really use the HD dvr but not if its more then 10 bucks. Even at 10 bucks that puts my bill to 65... times that by 12, you get 780 a year on cable!!... wow, thats a nice percentage my salary just for cable

you are lucky HD box and digital cable in santa monica is $68 plus tax. I think we are geting shafted in Socal ive been looking at east coast adelphia line ups and alot them have starz and cinemax hd.. why not use. Plus looks like they are geting inHD 1 & 2 along with hdnet and hdnet movies...

I called about the DVR and was told $7.95 per month for the box and service but the price goes down depending upon what other packages you have. If you have one advantage pack then I think it drops down to $4.95. She couldn't tell me if it's even cheaper if you already have HD. I might end up using it as an opportunity to get another box so that I can actually use my PIP.

I think the DVR is useless right now till they add way more channels.But would be nice

I wouldn't say useless- you can still record all of the analog and digital channels in addition to the handful of HD ones.

If the DVR works as advertized, I'd be willing to shell out $5/month for the DVR. I already have two DVRs (Replays - only one is working right now) but still can't record HD. I would use the Motorola DVR exclusively for HD shows like Sopranos, West Wing, CSI, etc...

Regarding Fox 11, I might try getting that credit, but they already gave me 6 months of free HD when I signed up. If they try and raise the prices or add teirs for HDNet, ESPNHD or any other "non-premium", then I'll be on them for some credits.

I just wish they would go with a different STB manufacturer. I hate the crappy TV Guide interactive stuff that Motorola boxes are stuck with.

I'm in Yorba Linda, so I called Adelphia as well. I have DirecTV and TiVos right now, and after reading the User Guide for the DVR, I was very disappointed in it's feature set. Realize that I could sell 2 DTiVos and 3 additional receivers by changing to cable (and probably save monthly as well since I already get internet through Adelphia).

These are must-have items in a DVR for me:

#1: 30-second skip. Even if I have to turn it on via a hidden key sequence, I cannot live without this. Football's way too nice with this feature. Also, it makes very short work of commercials. I refused to buy a TiVo until they added this feature.

#2: Season Pass or Double Red Dot. I need the ability to record all episodes of a show, presumably even if it changes nights or times, but I would settle for ReplayTV-like features where it looks ahead or behind by a single timeslot and gives you days to check on. There's no functionality for this. Instead, it blindly records the timeslot regardless of what's in it.

#3: Wishlists or Themes. I need the ability to find shows based on keyword searches. This is invaluable for sports.

#4: Dual Tuners. Watching weekly episodic shows and sports such hockey or football can be problematic with a single tuner. Since I got dual tuners, I never have this problem anymore.

#5: Sort by Priority. Another TiVo feature that I've fallen in love with is the ability to sort Season Passes and Wishlists into a long priority list. This allows me to set the importance of shows for the dual tuners to record. Between dual tuners and Priority Sorting, 99.9% of my recording can be automated on a single box, with zero intervention. I don't have time to set up recordings all the time.

Unfortunately for me, I would gladly pay up to $500 for these features as opposed to a DVR that is hardly better than a glorified digital VCR, so Adelphia really has no options for me. :(

Instead, I am going to get HDTV through D* now and see how much the HDTiVo price comes down by September when all the new seasons begin (sports and TV). Hopefully the TiVos come down by then.

Also, I am going to see how many channels I even get, since I am pretty much up against the hill and currently get NO signals from radio, TV, etc. from LA. So, I probably won't get any local channels OTA.

Still since I love sports, HDNet (for hockey) and ESPN-HD are the two most important channels to me, followed by CBS and FOX for football (all available on D*). I really don't watch anything on ABC or NBC except Leno (which is a waste of HD IMO--he just stands there). And I am still waiting for KTLA to go HD for Smallville and for ANYONE to carry FSW's allegedly HD broadcast.

Unless they come out with a working CableCard TiVo or ReplayTV, I just can't see getting cable again. These underpowered cable box DVRs just won't satisfy me.

How is the roll out of VOD in Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, VV. Hollywood and Beverly Hills going?


FOR RELEASE: November 5, 2003

ADELPHIA TO INTRODUCE VIDEO-ON-DEMAND IN SELECT S. CALIF. COMMUNITIES

Increased Variety and Control Coming to Customers in Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, VV. Hollywood, Beverly Hills

Greenwood Village, Colo. -- Adelphia Communications will begin offering its Adelphia OnDemand service by mid-December to digital cable customers in Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, West Hollywood, and Beverly Hills. The service areas represent a total of 63,000 homes.

Improving on the traditional pay-per-view (PPV) experience, Adelphia OnDemand offers Adelphia Digital Cable customers a broader offering of movies and programs with VCR¬like control of their viewing experience. This added control allows customers to begin viewing available programs whenever they like, and stop, pause, rewind, and fast¬forward at their own convenience. An additional feature allows users to view a selected movie as many times as they like within 24 hours at no additional charge.

Most of Adelphia's remaining Los Angeles service areas will introduce VOD over the next 12 months. Customers in the enabled areas will have access to a wide variety of content offerings, some priced similarly to video store rental, others at no additional charge:

New release and classic movie titles, with many refreshed on a weekly basis. HBO and Showtime subscribers will have OnDemand access to movies, original series and special programs available from these networks.
A selection of free OnDemand programs that focus on children's entertainment and education, music and short segment entertainment.

"Introducing VOD is another demonstration of Adelphia's commitment to being the preferred provider for video and data service in southern California," said Regional Senior Vice President Lee Perron. "With Adelphia OnDemand, digital cable customers will have access to their own personal video store without leaving their home or dealing with late fees. Adelphia intends to provide the best possible OnDemand service, and we will increase and improve the programming available over the next several months."

Any updates on the new channels? the HD PVR? and the ability to use firewire to dump content to DVHS?

I just had my 2nd Adelphia HDTV box installed this week. No word from the tech on the rollout. But they must be very close, because each box they install spends about 10 minutes updating all of its software to support the new VoD service. If I didn't have a big hill blocking reception of OTA digital channels, I'd probably switch to Voom. I want HDTV sports. Can't wait for ESPN-HD, INHD, HDnet, etc...

what about the rest of the HD channels and the dvr

I finally got somebody on the line in customer service. If you type in my zip code on their web site it shows we should get 911 (KTTV-DT FOX).
They said we don't get it. I said I had it for two weeks and it went away and it shows on their web site I should be getting it. They said we don't get it. I told him to chage their web site then. He said it was impossible for the web site to show we have 911. I said fine I guess I can't read or type in my own zip code.

I asked about the PVR also. He said he never heard of such a channel :eek:

I gave up at that point........

Later,
Jim

A CSR today said we should have the HD channels and the PVR by end of the month.

hahaha..... they said that at the end of April the channels would be there

End of the month seems to be their standard answer on all availability issues. But I have yet to see Adelphia actually meet a deadline and deliver as promised. They just keep pushing the deadline back 30 days at a time.

bwb

I'll just be happy if I can get a box with DVI. Many people at Adelphia don't seem to know the difference between DVI, DVR, and VOD.

what channels are they on?:p

i was just at bestbuy and i happen to stumble on an advertisement for adelphia HD services. Listed on the back they included the local networks plus InHD 1 and 2, espn HD, HD net, HDNET movies, HBO HD, Cinemax HD, Starz HD and Showtime HD. I dont know anywhere in socal that has all these channels

Did they mention the HD PVR and VOD? I mean if they are going for false advertizing, they may as well do it right.

i dont remember any mention of the dvr or vod. I have a flyer though that adelphia sent to my house saying coming soon

Copy from May bill stuffer:

HIGH-DEFINITION TELEVISION
A WHOLE NEW WAY TO WATCH TELEVISION
UNPARALLED PICTURE QUALITY.
ADELPHIA’S RELIABLE TECHNOLOGY.

Experience movies, sports and your favorite shows like never before.

Color: HDTV provides vivid color, including a wide range of hues (such as subtle purples and reds) without any bleeding at the edges of the image.

Clarity/Detail: HDTV images are as detailed as a high-resolution photograph. It is like looking through a window. When watching a TV program in HD, you will be amazed at the sharpness of the picture.

Wide-screen: HDTV allows you to view content in a 16:9 widescreen format, the same format used in movie theaters. Current TVs use a
4:3 image, which cuts pictures off because a wide image is forced into a narrow space.

Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound: All HDTV programming can provide 5.1 channel Dolby Digital Surround Sound-just like true theater sound!

Products not available in all areas. Price may vary. Services and programming subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply. Call for details.

HDTV -- A MOVIE THEATER IN YOUR LIVING ROOM!

It's not just better, sharper and clearer. It doesn't just have rich colors, brighter brights and deeper blacks. It's more than a wide, movielike screen. It's a whole new way of experiencing TV!

And remember -- HDTV offers roughly 6X more picture sharpness! Order HDTV today and receive your first 3 months free! Call 1-866-9-HDTV-NOW (1-866-943-8866)

HDTV may not be available in all areas. Must subscribe. to HBO and/or.Showtime to receive as part of your HDTV service. Regular pricing. applies after promotional: period ends.

Also coming soon Adelphia Video On Demand!
AdelphlaOnDemand
Pause, Fast forward and Rewind -
You're in control - stay tuned for more information.

I just wrote the VP of customer relations a letter. Ill send his response when i get it. So far he has responded back to ask for my exact address.

I just dropped by the local Adelphia office here in West L.A. to ask about DVR availability. I was told beta testing was still in progress and DVR probably wouldn't be avail. until the end of the summer.

I also downloaded the manual for the moto 6200. It looks like it is really the same as the 6208 DVR. The way I read it (and I'm speculating a little) if Adelphia would just activate the feature, we could simply plug a firewire drive into the 6200 and we'd have a DVR. The manual does say explicitly that the capacity of the 6208 can be expanded by simply plugging in a firewire drive.

Don't suppose you asked when ESPN HD, HDNet, etc were going to be turned on??? :D

I asked when they would be adding the channels and said that I knew they already had deals.... seems like an automated responce or something but basically this email says "i dont know"

Dear *******,



I received your message in regards to adding more HD programming. I would like to inform you that we are hoping to add ESPN HD, IN HD, and HD net in the near future. The approximate date of availability has not been released to me yet. I will keep your name and number on file and I will contact you with any new HD information that is released to me.



Thank you for taking the time to advise us of your interest in more HD programming. Your request has been recorded and will be considered as we evaluate our offerings in the future. Do not hesitate to contact me if I can ever be of any assistance to you.



Thank you,



Sarai Gonzalez

Business Office Associate/CSSR

Adelphia Communications

714-632-9222 ext 203

sarai.gonzalez@adelphia.com

Adelphia had been saying that we would have the new channels by the end of this month. With only one week left that doesn't look very likely.

I heard we are getting Espn in June and thats it. I email a the VP of customer relations for adelphia and he forwarded me to a local project manager. She stated no new HD channel except espn hd in june.

I did get a flyer in the mail today saying they are raising prices so maybe this will give them the extra coin they need to add some channels.
Jim

In Yorba Linda, they told me Cartoon Network was coming in 30 days for 2 straight years!

For years the cable tv industry has lived down a reputation for poor customer service. No doubt gains have been accomplished however bad habits die hard. Monopolistic or predatory practices need to stop. Misinformation or premature announcements are not helpful. It isn't unreasonable for a subscriber to ask when additional channels or services will be made available especially when their mailboxes are flooded with new product announcements. In the Los Angeles area Adelphia has franchise agreements with different municipalities which may explain why the rate structure or channel lineups vary from the west side to the east side. But it is odd that in Los Angeles, the epi center of film and television production cable service lags behind other parts of the country when it comes to enhanced services or a robust HD channel lineup. Customer service reps only pass along what they are told and management prefer to keep their employees in the dark. But ask someone in management and they have a time frame for when new services will be launched. "In 30 days" or "the end of the month" may put to rest an immediate inquiry, but then when nothing materializes a subscriber may feel duped. I don't wish to perpetuate ill feelings but behavior lacking common courtesy can arouse animosity.

I wish they would give us FOX or take the logo off the website.


http://www.adelphiasocal.com/hdtv/

Originally posted by Red Dwarf
I wish they would give us FOX or take the logo off the website.I guess this is their CYA ;)Some services may not be available in all areas. HBO® and Showtime® HDTV channels require separate purchase. Though, if FOX isn't offered in ANY SoCal area, then they really do need to fix it. Every once in a while I think they have added it because it appears in my ReplayTV's channel guide.

FOX is offered in at least some of SoCal in digital. For instance here in Yorba Linda, I've had it for a couple months. However, in the latest brochure I got about rate hikes (how much does it cost them to create these multi page, fold-out, full color ads anyways?), it very specifically says, in the asterisk on the back of a coupon for HDTV, that "Fox 11 may not be available in all areas". How could anyone miss this in such an obvious location for a disclaimer :) Especially since it is completely separate from the disclaimer that says Showtime and HBO require separate purchase.

Jason

Originally posted by jasonvr
FOX is offered in at least some of SoCal in digital.

Jason

So what is so tough to deliver one stinkin' channel for all of us here in SoCal :confused: I don't get it. Not that FOX has a dynamite HD line up. But come Sept. I want the NFL!

Might I suggest that anyone in areas that do not currently receive Fox and have a Mitsubishi (or other brand of TV) with a built in digital cable tuner try to see what can be received with it. I found that I could receive Fox using that tuner over a week before the cable box was enabled to receive Fox on 911. I found it on channel 100.03. I have since found that I can receive all the non-subscription HD channels using this tuner (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and PBS-HD). It is possible that for some reason, they have not enabled your boxes to receive the channel, but that doesn't mean it isn't actually on the wire.

BTW, my TV is a Mitsubishi 55-511, so I know that model is capable of tuning things that are present. I can only assume that there are other TV's out there with a similar feature.

Jason

Everyone trust me and you all already know FOX has almost no HD programming. Im sure by the time th NFL season begins it will be on. If I could, I would switch my Fox channel to you guys. Its worthless on my TV. Enough of the fox!!! when do we ge ESPN

Aren't the Nascar races on Fox in 480p widescreen? We had Fox (911) for maybe two weeks then it went away. Calling Adelphia CS was no help at all.
Jim

still have fox here in santa monica. Jason how often do you scan the channels? Wondering if hdnet's or INdemands are there but not mapped

Originally posted by ql1
I just dropped by the local Adelphia office here in West L.A. to ask about DVR availability. I was told beta testing was still in progress and DVR probably wouldn't be avail. until the end of the summer.

I'm new to this forum. so please excuse my ignorance, but my understanding is that the current Adelphia HDTV receivers do not offer DVI. I also understand that DVI will be offered with the DVR unit when that becomes available. Am I correct? If so, does the DVR eliminate the need for a HD receiver (i.e. is a HD tuner included in the DVR)?

Thanks

htomei

Originally posted by htomei22
I'm new to this forum. so please excuse my ignorance, but my understanding is that the current Adelphia HDTV receivers do not offer DVI. I also understand that DVI will be offered with the DVR unit when that becomes available. Am I correct? If so, does the DVR eliminate the need for a HD receiver (i.e. is a HD tuner included in the DVR)?

Thanks

htomei The Moto 6200 DOES have the DVI enabled. It is what I am using to connect the box to my Sony GWIII.

The DVR (Moto 6208) should also have DVi enabled, since it is nearly identical to the 6200. And yes, the DVR is combined with the HD/Digital receiver.

Perfectchris -
I agree that FOX isn't that big of a deal right now. I would have much rather have had WB for Smallville and Discovery, HDNet, HDNet Movies, ESPB, Bravo, etc The main reason I'm complaining about FOX is that Adelphia lists it on the web site.

I still can't believe they are raising the rates less than 6 months from the last increase. Once I get into a house, I'll be ditching cable. (yes I know I can get a dish in my condo, but the wiring would be a mess inside my unit)

My Adelphia 6200 box has DVI enabled and I'm currently using it. My old 5100 had it too when I got the box back in March...

Originally posted by Valuepac
still have fox here in santa monica. Jason how often do you scan the channels? Wondering if hdnet's or INdemands are there but not mapped

I am now trying to scan the channels once a week due to the supposedly impending addition of ESPN-HD, inHD, etc (any year now). I will post to the forum if I find anything new of interest. What is odd is that I find quite a few random standard cable TV channels like: NickToons, Oxygen, TechTv, IFC, BBC America, National Geographic, and several others.

Unfortunately, during the scan, I get a lot stations that are stored to memory, but when tuned to, they say something like "This channel is scrambled....". Makes the process much more painful to do than if they weren't there. Kinda makes me wonder if all the stations are actually found, but some are scrambled for some reason. I remember reading in some Adelphia documentation that if you supply your own cable box, that Adelphia needs to supply an access card. I wonder if the same would apply for this tuner?

Jason

moeronn and pg_rider:

Thanks for the info. Now the tough part - do I sign up now and use the 6200 or do I wait for the 6208? Decisions, decisions..........

htomei

So its june 3rd and no Inhd or espn =(

BTW im thinking about gettng voom now.Spent 3,000.00+ on a tv and to only get couple of channels of HD is not worth it in my opinion

I asked INHD: "When might we see your networks in Los Angeles on Adelphia?"

This was the reply from INHD.COM:

While it seems likely that your system will carry INHD soon, it is difficult for us to know exactly when INHD will launch with your particular in home television provider. Typically, your in home television provider will have the most current information. Even once INHD reaches a deal with a particular provider, it may take additional time for a provider to begin airing INHD. Delivering high definition television to the home is a challenging endeavor for all parties given the new equipment and bandwidth requirements involved.

Originally posted by htomei22
moeronn and pg_rider:

Thanks for the info. Now the tough part - do I sign up now and use the 6200 or do I wait for the 6208? Decisions, decisions..........

htomei If you have an HD capable TV/Monitor without an HD receiver, I would just get the 6200 now. Who knows how long it will be before Adelphia actually launches the 6208. When they do, just have them swap out the box. There shouldn't be any installation charges for either box.

Have they started allowing DIY kits yet? That would be better than having to schedule an install.

Originally posted by moeronn
If you have an HD capable TV/Monitor without an HD receiver, I would just get the 6200 now. Who knows how long it will be before Adelphia actually launches the 6208. When they do, just have them swap out the box. There shouldn't be any installation charges for either box.

Have they started allowing DIY kits yet? That would be better than having to schedule an install.

Took your advice and ordered it yesterday. No install charges and it's to be installed (no DIY) this coming Wednesday. I'll post my impressions of picture quality on my IF 7200/Stewart Firehawk (120" x 67.5") combo.

htomei

Are they going to use the 6208 or the 6408? I would prefer the dual tuner 6408.

Looks like 6208 or the moxi 9000 unit. Lets all hope they go with the moxi

This has been (briefly) touched on earlier, but was wondereing if there were any updates. Is anyone using an unscrambled QAM tuner (either built-in or STB) with Adelphia SoCal? What channels are you able to get? An earlier poster gave a list back in March, any changes? Also, Adelphia gave you the impression that this was illegal? My understanding is that Adelphia must provide unscrambled QAM locals on the limited basic plan (i.e. not digital tier, only el cheapo plan). Is anyone using it this way?

-Sketchy

When I signed up for the waiting list on the Adelphia web site they gave me a phone # to call for more info about the DVR's. They lady that I talked with was taking classes on the DVR's and was very informative.

I asked if the DVR's would have dual tuners and she said yes. I then asked if they were using the 6408 (which has 2 tuners) and she said that she was not familiar with that model # and that she was being trained on the BMC9000. I went to the Motorola site and found out that this is a Moxi model #.

So from this info I would assume that they are using the Moxi based DVR's.

octavian

If you do a search in this forum using "Moxi" there is a Jan. '04 relevant post.

"Adelphia Plans to Roll Out Moxi Media Boxes in LA"

Originally posted by sketchy9
This has been (briefly) touched on earlier, but was wondereing if there were any updates. Is anyone using an unscrambled QAM tuner (either built-in or STB) with Adelphia SoCal? What channels are you able to get? An earlier poster gave a list back in March, any changes? Also, Adelphia gave you the impression that this was illegal? My understanding is that Adelphia must provide unscrambled QAM locals on the limited basic plan (i.e. not digital tier, only el cheapo plan). Is anyone using it this way?

-Sketchy

I originally posted my findings back in March with the QAM tuner. Since then I have done some more surveys and found some things that changed around. Right now I am away on business and can't do a full survey with channel numbers, but I know I found the following:
Digital ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, and PBS
National Geographic
Oxygen
Discovery Home
ESPN News
Some sort of OnDemand preview that only filled a 1/4 of the screen
2 different InDemand PPV preview channels

I am successfully using that tuner with Adelphia, but only on a limited basis, i.e. to check for new channels. As I posted before, I found Fox at least a week before the box was enabled to actually receive it. Adelphia didn't really give me the impression that it was illegal, but they didn't believe it should work, and that if it did I should not complain if it disappeared. Basically, it seemed like they were treating it as an unsupported way to receive the stations. At the time I was only able to get ABC I believe and none of the other digital broadcast channels. As such, I got an HD box from them, therefore, I don't know how they could say I was doing anything wrong since I'm paying them for a box I technically don't even need (I don't subscribe to HBO or Showtime). As for other legal issues, I don't know what they are required to provide as unscrambled QAM, but it would appear that for the time being, they are providing the digital broadcast channels in the clear. In addition, Adelphia clearly states that they are not charging for the HD stations. The additional 9.95 a month is for the box, which you could supply yourself if your bought one, thereby avoiding the fee.

I hope to post a full survey this weekend, complete with channel numbers.

Jason

Thanks for the reply Jason. As posted by DoubleDaz in the HDTV Hardware section (sorry I can't post a link, but the thread title is "CableCard and Cable vs. Satellite"):

"One rules says they cannot make you get any tier higher than their basic non-digital tier to get local channels, including those in HD. Cox Cable here in Phoenix is still saying they cannot turn off other digital channels if they give you a digital/HD box, so they are still making folks get a digital tier. This appears to be illegal, though they say they are working on a solution.

Another rule says they have to pass EAS (Emergency Alert System) data. As I understand it, the local station is supposed to be responsible for EAS, but many digital stations are not yet ready to do so, so cable is left holding the bag or they get fined. Cable appears to have to encrypt the channel in order to do the EAS, though I have no idea why this is so. At any rate, as digital stations get online to pass EAS, cable is no longer responsible and they are unencrypting the channels."

So apparently digital locals don't need to be unencrypted, but they need to be available on the basic cable package. If the EAS is functioning properly, then it sounds like cablecos just go ahead and unencrypt the digital locals. It's good to hear that Adelphia passes unencryped digital locals, I'm presuming this means that the EAS issue is sorted out here. In which case it baffles me why Adelphia would ever consider re-encrypting digital locals--hopefully they never will.

-Sketchy

Well Channel 711 in Arcadia is now coming in!

Too bad there's no HDTV things on FOX :(

Well I guess I have to take it all back. KTTV-DT is finally working here in Sierra Madre. ;)

now if we only get the other 7 channels we are missing!

Still no Fox or anything else new here.

Still no Fox here in Fullerton either.

bwb

adelphia should dump all the analog channels. Then we would have plenty of bandwidth for HD. At the very least we have both HBOP and MaxP on analog, lets get rid of those and open the space for 2-3 HD channels

Attched is my survey of the channels available using my built in Digital Cable tuner in Yorba Linda as promised. The file is a zipped Excel spreadsheet. There is currently a custom filter on the channel name column. When I do the search I get a lot of channels that either say that the channel is scrambled or the channel no longer exists (odd since it picked it up in the autoscan 10 minutes before). The custom filter leaves just the stations that actually come in. All in all, the tuner "finds" 294 stations, but only 25 actually come in (including all the digitals which are highlighted). You can see from the number of channels I have to go thru why I don't do this more often.

Jason

Thanks for the info Jason. I'm moving to an Adelphia area and I'm not sure if OTA will work--- but I hate the idea of paying too much for cable. Hopefully a QAM tuner will work for me.

-Sketchy

Originally posted by Valuepac
adelphia should dump all the analog channels. Then we would have plenty of bandwidth for HD. At the very least we have both HBOP and MaxP on analog, lets get rid of those and open the space for 2-3 HD channels I think they are already starting to do this. They took both HBO and SHO out of the Seal Beach analog line-up - but I'm actually pissed about that. That means I can only record HBO on one of my ReplayTVs, since I only have (want) one cable box and I can't watch HBO in the bedroom. I'd much rather get rid of all the home shopping, religion and foreign language channels that I don't watch. I'm not sure if having channels a la carte would help things, but I'd still rather have/pay for only the channels I want!!

I saw in the LA Times today Adelphia is hiring a firm to help them find buyers for the company. Maybe this is why they are not rolling anything new out. ???

Jim

Jim - I don't think that's the issue. Here in NH, A* added HDNet, HDNet Movies, ESPN-HD, InHD1 and InHD2 in mid-May...well after their announcement of a possible sale. I'm guessing it's more of an equipment/infrastructure issue in SoCal. FYI, here's a post with our HD tier for comparison:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3812872#post3812872

I agree im suppose to be getting my HD DVR (moto 6208) this afternoon for beta test. I really rather have the moxi (2 tuners better interface, larger HD, but hey to record HD who complaining.. its a good start!

Well i finally have the HD DVR.. Being a tivo user, use to pausing live tv, it so nice to finally be able to pause hdtv. From using it i can already tell in notime i will have the small 80gig harddrive filled. Wonder if there away to hack it and add storage? Regardless it nice to have the functionality of dvr finally!

Valuepac,

Very cool. Are you using dvi for your connection, and if so, are you having any of the dreaded Motorola 6200 HDCP 'handshake' problems?

Any idea when the 6208 will be made available to those of us not lucky enough to be beta testers??

htomei

Anybody get any new channel info as to what or when if ever??
Still nothing new here.....
Thanks
Jim

Originally posted by Valuepac
I agree im suppose to be getting my HD DVR (moto 6208) this afternoon for beta test. I really rather have the moxi (2 tuners better interface, larger HD, but hey to record HD who complaining.. its a good start!

I really hope they go with the Moxi boxes. I've had enough of the crappy TV Guide interactive stuff.

Originally posted by Mayor McCheese
I really hope they go with the Moxi boxes.
Mayor, I've got a Happy Meal for you: Adelphia has begun deploying HD DVR with Moxi in Ventura this week. I'll keep you posted as availability expands to other areas in So. Cal.

Originally posted by MoxiGuy
Mayor, I've got a Happy Meal for you: Adelphia has begun deploying HD DVR with Moxi in Ventura this week. I'll keep you posted as availability expands to other areas in So. Cal.

How do you get one of those? I signed up on the web site but haven't heard anything from them yet.

By the way Oxnard is in Ventura County right next to the city of Ventura. Since Adelphia closed the local call center we get routed to the main call center and they are basically useless.

Thanks,

Jim

Originally posted by MoxiGuy
Mayor, I've got a Happy Meal for you: Adelphia has begun deploying HD DVR with Moxi in Ventura this week. I'll keep you posted as availability expands to other areas in So. Cal.

I may have to send Hamburglar up to Ventura to steal one for me.

Hopefully, north orange county gets a few.

And hopefully, the Moxi doesn't have the HDCP handshake issue that the DCT-5100/6200/6208s have.

Originally posted by Mayor McCheese
And hopefully, the Moxi doesn't have the HDCP handshake issue that the DCT-5100/6200/6208s have.
Working on the handshake. Expect a solution later this year.

Is anyone else experiencing constant very brief audio dropouts on KTTV-DT? It sounds like the audio is constantly stuttering. It only seems to be affecting things that are coming from the national feed. Local items, such as So-Cal specific commercials and commercials for the news don't seem to be affected.

Jason

I recieved a recent flyer from adelphia and espn HD listed as an HD channel. No HD nets or IN HDs..... I believe its coming soon. I wish they would just drop analog HBO and analog cinemax, put 2-3 hd channels in there place!

Adelphia has Moxi deployed in Newbury Park, Camarillo, & Oxnard, CA.

Be nice if they would call people who have signed up for it......
I tried calling again last week about when they are going to add FOX-HD(911) here or ESPN-HD and a HD-PVR. They had no idea on any of it.

Thanks for the info I'll try calling again. I wonder if I just took my current 5100 box to the local Adelphia store if they would be able to do anything??
The 800 Adelphia CS line is useless.

Jim

Finally, after four months of hounding them (they "forgot" to run the trunk line to my street), I finally had a 6200 installed yesterday and saw the first HD material in my Mt. Washington home. Pitiful. A few locals, HBO & SHO and that's it. No HDNet, INHD, Discovery, ESPN, etc. All of the HD channels break up with macro-pixelazation, both locals and satellite feeds. Pretty unwatchable.

After reading this thread, it seems that channel offerings vary widely by the serving head-end (Eagle Rock in this case) but, my goodness, this is terrible. I've got Dish and Comcast HD at a house in Denver that work just fine.

VOOM won't work here, haven't bothered to add DirectTV HD until the HD DVR is readily available, so it's Adelphia at the moment.

Signal strength looked good during the install. SD channels work fine, just the HD keeps breaking up. Firmware is 7.10.

Are others of you in the LA area having the same problem? Do any of their systems NOT have this problem? Is it the 6200? Who do I yell at next?

Thanks,

John Tyson

Does anybody know where I can purchase the component cable that comes with the HD Box? I misplaced mine and they want to charge me $100. :mad:

fourizonly,

Any consumer electronics store, Radio Shack, Good Guys, Circuit City, Fry;s, or any specialty retailer will be happy to soak you good for a special component cable. Maybe not a $100, but it will be hefty.

High-end pursists may jump down my throad for this, but, if your STB is close to your TV, you can use any Left-Right-Video connector and avoid the extra cost. You just need a little extra caution to be sure you're matching each output to the corresponding input. (Heloise tip: put your own labels on the ends). Of course, something will nag at you saying... if I had the expensive cable this might look even better.

Originally posted by mktgMaven
fourizonly,

Any consumer electronics store, Radio Shack, Good Guys, Circuit City, Fry;s, or any specialty retailer will be happy to soak you good for a special component cable. Maybe not a $100, but it will be hefty.

High-end pursists may jump down my throad for this, but, if your STB is close to your TV, you can use any Left-Right-Video connector and avoid the extra cost. You just need a little extra caution to be sure you're matching each output to the corresponding input. (Heloise tip: put your own labels on the ends). Of course, something will nag at you saying... if I had the expensive cable this might look even better.

Hi Maven,

Thanks for the reply. Sorry if I didn't explain it clearly. I want to return my HD box and they want the component cable that came with the box. I misplaced the cable because I was using my own component cable. When I went to the local office they want the component cable back!! :(

I know it's my mistake for misplace the cable, and I just want to know where to purchase the exact component cable that came with the back.

I didn't get any cables at all with my 5100 box installed by Adelphia. Maybe just tell them the tech didn't leave any cables because you were using your own. Might work??? Just a thought.

Jim

Thanks guys. I have another question. As you know I returned my HD box and swapped for a Digital Box Moto 2500. The box I got surprisingly has the S-Video enabled. I know S-Video is better than composite, but will there be any significant improvement? Thanks. :D

johnty - I had the pixelation problem after the install, as well. I made them come out and swap the box and the new box worked fine. Definitely worth a shot.

fourizonly - the s-video signal will be noticebly better than the composite signal. the box might also have digical audio out.

I just was Checking my HD channels and all of a sudden there is a channel 939!!!Its ESPN HD but Programming says To Be Announced and the black screen says NOT AUTHORIZED ESPN D For Ordering Information Press OK


DO i have to buy it?Or will it come in the package?>

Originally posted by H3at
I just was Checking my HD channels and all of a sudden there is a channel 939!!!Its ESPN HD but Programming says To Be Announced and the black screen says NOT AUTHORIZED ESPN D For Ordering Information Press OK


DO i have to buy it?Or will it come in the package?> press Ok, if they're going to charge you, they will have to let you know and you'll have to confirm it.

Sweet! Ch 939, ESPN HD, is now here on Adelphia in Redondo Beach. Unfortuneately I'm also "not authorized", and pressing "OK" does nothing. Hopefully they'll have it enabled by tomorrow!

939 also appears in Yorba Linda, but I get the same "Not Authorized". This is similar to what happened on Superbowl Sunday with CBS. The channel physically appeared but had no content. Shortly afterwards, it disappeared for a few weeks I believe before it actually came on with content. I am also doing a scan with my built in tuner (look for earlier posts for an explanation) to see if the content is actually there and how it looks.

Jason

939 said channel will be available shortly for a few hours. It is now coming in fine in oak park, Ca.

Originally posted by Bridog
It is now coming in fine in oak park, Ca.

Working here in Oxnard also.

Jim

I have ESPN here in Fullerton as well, although I get the "Not Authorized" message. This appears to be one of the first market wide upgrades for So Cal. Sure beats system by system.

bwb

I'm getting the Not Authorized for it in Brea also.

ESPN HD launched on Adelphia in Los Angeles on July 30th but requires an additional nominal subscription. I called (888) 683-1000 tonight and the box was authorized before I could hang up the phone.

I'm getting "Not Authorized" for ESPNHD here in Santa Monica as well. I called Adelphia but the line just goes to busy.

bgooch - wish I knew what number your were calling - anytime I call it's at least 15->20 minutes on hold before I actually speak with someone.

Are they charging additional for ESPN HD on top of the premium I'm already paying for HD/HBOHD/SHOHD??

Originally posted by bgooch
ESPN HD launched on Adelphia in Los Angeles on July 30th but requires an additional nominal subscription.
Thanks for the info. How much $$$ are we talking here? And I agree with scotes, it should just be part of the regular HD package.... :(

Never mind -- just called Aelphia and had them enable it for $1.50 per month...

Originally posted by pg_rider
Never mind -- just called Aelphia and had them enable it for $1.50 per month...

I did'nt have to call Adelphia to receive 939? I'm wondering if I am going to see the rate increase you just mentioned.

B

Do you guys that are having to pay extra have the other premium channels like HBO-HD & SHO-HD?

Jim

Yeah, I've had HBO-HD and SHO-HD since March. The rep on the phone said "as far as Adelphia is concerned EPSN-HD is covered under the basic HD package, but ESPN has decided that they need to charge on an a-la-carte basis" or some nonsense like that....

Guess I'll have to wait to see if mine goes away. I saw it in the guide last night and selected it and there it was.

What's everybody think about the video quality so far?

Jim

Paying 10 dollars for the box a month..... they can't give us ESPN as well? Geez, Might as well gone dish. I can get all the local channels. So is ESPNHD gonna have an additional cost as well or will it be included ?

Charging extra for ESPNHD ticks me off a bit even though it's only $1.50 and add to that it's not always HD. And when I spoke with Adelphia this morning they gave me conflicting info to what they gave pg_rider - I would think Santa Monica and Redondo both fall under Adelphia SoCal.

I'm too lazy to stay on the line with them for 20 minutes, but it seems like they're charging for it? The only thing they regularly show on ESPNHD in HD is Sportscenter and frankly, I wouldn't pay 25 cents a month to see that in HD. I guess I'll just hold out till football season. That's the only way they'll get me to toss in a few bucks to subscribe.

cyclones22

ESPN HD has MLB Sunday and Weds nights now. Tonight St. Louis plays SF Giants at SBC at 5:00pm PST.

Just signed up for ESPN HD for $1.50/Mo here in Fullerton. College football starts this month and even if most/many games are not in HD at least the picture quality will be better. Well worth a $1.50 in my book.

bwb

Originally posted by cyclones22
The only thing they regularly show on ESPNHD in HD is Sportscenter and frankly, I wouldn't pay 25 cents a month to see that in HD.

I am pretty sure the topic of ESPNHD having a limited amount of actual HD and the fact that it's upconverted SD is pretty sucky (at least that's my opinion after checking it out this weekend). I fully agree it's ridiculous to charge extra for such a limited amount. Does anybody know offhand (I know I know I should just do a search) if other cable systems are charging extra for it?

I dont think adelphia charges anyone on the east coast for there 5 HD channels (inhd 1 & 2.. Hdnet/movies)